For businesses small and large alike, shipping poses a number of environmental problems. No matter what steps your take to green your shipping practices, there are still issues with polluting the air and water.
But there’s also another problem with shipping that might not immediately be on your radar: noise pollution.
According to reports on noise in the ocean by Reuters, man-made noise (made mainly by large ships and oil rigs) are threatening whales, sea turtles, and other animals that rely on sonar and sounds to communicate. Experts say that these animals can become scared or confused at the sounds, causing them to dive erratically without considerng the water pressure changes.
In addition, rising levels of carbon dioxide are causing the ocean’s acidity to change. This is actually making sound travel faster and farther through the water. Says Mark Simmonds, Science Director of the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society,
“If there is a lot of background noise, the animals can’t hear the boat coming. It’s the cocktail party effect.”
This isn’t just happening in the ocean. Noise pollution is also having environmental effects on land. Airplanes, traffic, manufacturing plants, and other noise sources are causing animals to abandon habitats, and it can also disrupt natural hunting and communications in the animal kingdom.
What can you do as a small business owner to cut down on noise pollution? Noise consultants might be able to help your business, but for the most part, it is up to you to make positive changes to cut down on the noise you’re creating in the world with your small business. Here are some of the easiest and most significant changes you can make:
- Support local groups, like No Boomers, who are working toward quieter neighborhoods.
- Buy local materials that don’t have to be shipped by sea or far by land.
- Explore telecommuting options for your employees or help set up carpools. You can also start your work day an hour later (and end an hour later) to help them avoid contributing to rush hour noise.
- Sell your items locally.
- Look for green shipping companies when you do have to ship your products.
This article on Greener Shipping is also a really great resource for learning more about green shipping options. Remember, when you ship products, you’re also polluting with noise – so you have another reason to go green with your shipping!
Photo via dynamix at sxc.hu.
